Abstract

Spatial distributions of simultaneously measured concentrations of atmospheric trace constituents are needed in order to improve our knowledge of middle atmospheric chemistry, dynamics and energy budget. Fourier Transform Spectrometers are especially appropriate for providing such a data base. For studying nighttime and polar winter conditions it is necessary to perform emission measurements. A high spectral resolution, rapid scanning FTS with a novel optical design has been developed for the mid IR region. An uncooled laboratory model (MIPAS-LM) providing an apodized spectral resolution of 0.03 cm^-1 has been completed in 1987. This instrument version is being used for operation as a ground based device for measuring column amounts of trace gases at midlatitude mountain and polar stations. A cooled version of MIPAS has been designed in order to serve the great need for data on diurnal variations of trace constituents and on the compositon and structure of the polar stratosphere. This instrument version is capable for observing the thermal emission of the atmosphere from platforms operating within the stratosphere and outside of the atmosphere.

© 1990 Optical Society of America